Parishes Welcoming Those with Special Needs

"When Father David Nuss learned that Sunshine Communities was seeking group-home sites for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, he knew his parish could help.

"Not only did Little Flower Catholic Church in Toldeo, Ohio, have a parcel of unused land on its 19-acre campus that would be suitable for such homes, but as a faith community with a fully accessible church building and a heart for people with disabilities, it was a place where, Father Nuss said, 'We've got a built-in 'welcome wagon.''

"After visiting the parish for a Sunday Mass, Sunshine representatives agreed. Sale of the land - at below-market price - was completed, and ground was broken May 2 for two homes that will house eight people each.

"Betty Holland, Sunshine’s CEO, said the partnership between her organization and Little Flower will give residents immediate social connections with the parish and St. Benedict School, something not always easily achieved, even when sites can be found for such homes: 'People with developmental disabilities too often live in our communities without having a sense of belonging that comes from lasting relationships.'

A recent National Catholic Register article reported on some of the Church's outreach to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

To access the complete National Catholic Register report, please visit:

National Catholic Register: Special Welcome: Parishes Gladly Accommodate Those With a Variety of Needs (9 JUL 16)